Hello! Thanks for clicking the title! This is a sad, tragic tale about the rift forming between the two sisters after the sudden loss of their parents. I've undertaken the task of re-posting some of my old works, but this story I couldn't find a copy of. So I just re-wrote the whole thing and now it's much better. I hope you enjoy reading it!

Alone: A Frozen Fic

Part One

A simple thing like going downstairs for dinner couldn't be that hard, right? Elsa often asked herself this question whenever she had to face the task. It was a daily ritual that nearly drove her into paranoia.

She tried not to pace around in her bedroom, focusing on the mundane, routine chore of pinning up her hair. She tried to take meals in her quarters whenever possible, but her parents always insisted she join them and Anna for at least one meal a day. Today, dinner was to be taken outside on the veranda, overlooking the sunny gardens. It was a glorious summer day and taking a meal outside would be very nice, but she still didn't want to go.

Elsa wasn't looking forward to it whatsoever. How was she to get out of this one? There was one time when she pretended to be ill in an attempt to avoid dinner. The servants could always sneak a meal up to her later—but Papa had seen through the ruse right away.

"It'll be alright this time. Not like last week when I frosted my knife and fork…or that time when I froze my bowl of soup. I should've been wearing thicker gloves..." Elsa picked out a fresh pair once she'd finished with her hair. Checking herself in the mirror, she now looked perfectly put-together, albeit a little stiff and confined in the long-sleeved, gloved-hands outfit. She was ready for anything.

Besides, she couldn't very well back out of dinner with the family tonight. Her parents had hinted about some exciting news they wanted to share and planned to tell both her and Anna at the same time. Elsa sighed—mealtimes were basically the only times she ever saw her sister.

Anna was always so happy, eager to chat and strike up a conversation. Sitting at the same table was the perfect opportunity for it. Sometimes Elsa forgot about the dangers of becoming close again and relaxed, finally happy to talk to her. But whenever Anna suggested something like going to an event in town, or taking a walk through the gardens together, Elsa declined. Such a thing was too risky. If her emotions became too strong, the gloves wouldn't do as great a job at concealing her powers. There was no telling what accident might occur! So she made up some excuse to get out of it.

As Elsa walked down the corridor, she prayed Anna wouldn't ask to spend time together. There were only so many excuses she could conjure up.

"Whatever this news Mama and Papa have should distract her," Elsa smoothed the skirts of her dress upon reaching the top of the staircase. She took a deep breath to calm down, always nervous when she had to leave the safety of her room. "Here it goes…and no frosting the silverware this time."

Elsa nodded to a few servants she passed, acting as normal as possible and moving quickly. This was always a time of day she dreaded. Best to get it over with.

…

For Anna, dinnertime was an important daily event. Whenever Elsa joined them was a prime time to talk and try to reconnect. She had long ago given up knocking on her door. During a meal, it was sure to be easier without a wall between them.

The royal family was seated at a lovely table set up on the veranda. The castle gardens spread out all around, in full bloom and adding a sweet, summery atmosphere to the dinner scene. The evening sun streamed all around cheerfully, matching Anna's mood. She was all smiles, chatting away while they ate.

Mama and Papa were laughing at tales of Anna's daily antics—today she had apparently performed quite the stunt while horseback riding.

"So long as you don't do anything too dangerous," the Queen warned gently. "I don't want you getting hurt, Anna."

"Don't worry, Mama," Anna took a bite of a bread roll. "I'm paying close attention to the instructor's instructions—er, advice. Most of the time, anyway. So, Elsa—"

The elder princess had been nibbling at her salad, looking at the table's centerpiece bouquet to avoid eye contact. She sat up even straighter, tense with attention, already sensing what Anna was about to ask.

"We're riding out to the north beach along the fjord tomorrow. Why don't you come with us? I know you haven't had as many lessons with the horses as me, but I'm pretty good. I can give you some pointers. It'll be fun!"

That actually did sound like fun, but absolutely out of the question. A day trip like that would be hours long. There was no telling what her powers would do out near the open water. Ice tended to form when she least expected it when she became too happy. As per routine, she made up an excuse. "…I've got my studies to catch up on." Elsa went on eating, focusing on her plate and not the look of disappointment on Anna's face. She hurriedly changed the subject. "So, Papa, what is this news you were going to tell us?"

"Well, your mother and I have received on invitation from Corona. You remember their King and Queen came to our winter gala last year?"

"Oh, who could forget them?" said Anna in remembrance. "I've never met such kind people! And the story about their daughter and how they never gave up hope—I cried tears of joy when Arendelle learned she had been found at last."

Elsa wished she had gone to that gala. Corona was a close ally to Arendelle, with an adored royal family who had recently found their lost princess. They sounded like wonderful people and she had longed to meet them. But of course, she didn't dare attend a crowded party. Maybe someday, but not anytime soon. She went on listening to her parents.

"Yes. Miracles do happen, don't they?" said Mama. "Anyway, back to the news at hand—"

"Rapunzel and I have been writing letters back and forth. She's so artistic, always drawing little flowers and designs on the things she sends. I'd love to meet her someday—"

"Focus, Anna!" Elsa teased with a giggle. "Can't you see there other things at hand?"

"Right! Sorry, Mama."

"As we were saying," said the King. "Your mother and I have received an invitation to Princess Rapunzel's wedding! Her parents have told us all about the young man; apparently he's a former thief. I'll admit, I was a bit surprised when I heard of his background, but he has earned Corona's trust and Princess Rapunzel's heart. From what the royal family has told us, he sounds like a decent fellow who will do well ruling by her side one day."

"A wedding! Oh, that's wonderful news!" Anna proclaimed. "Any chance Elsa and I could come? I know I've only met the King and Queen of Corona that one time, and have yet to meet Rapunzel, but perhaps…?" he big eyes became bigger with begging, gleaming with hope.

Mama smiled. "Sorry, sweetie. But we cannot all leave Arendelle." She addressed both of her daughters. "You two will be running the kingdom while your father and I are away. After all, you're both growing up so quickly. This will be the perfect time to learn more responsibilities about being 'in charge,' so to speak."

"Elsa," said Papa. "As heir, your tasks will be slightly more numerous, but I believe this is the perfect way to continue preparing you for the throne. And Anna, while your responsibilities will not be primary, they will by no means be less important. Now, it would be wise for you two to work as a team, since this trip will be the longest time your mother and I have been away from home…"

Across the table, Elsa bit her lip as her father went on. She couldn't hear what was being said over the sound of the panicked scream in her head. Running the kingdom while her parents were away? What if she had to leave the castle grounds? What if she stayed around people for too long? She'd have to be careful to keep her emotions in check—that always made her powers go haywire when she least expected it, even with gloves on. Why was I born the oldest? I'll be ruling Arendelle someday…This will be my lifelong fate, keeping the magic a secret. It will never end…she thought gravely.

Anna, however, was more excited about the prospect. A tad nervous, though. "Sounds like a big job, but I'll do my best to help out in any way I can. We'll work as a team…right?" she glanced at her sister, hoping to see some enthusiasm.

"Uh…right…" Suddenly Elsa lost her appetite. It could be dangerous if something went wrong; she shuddered at the thought. "Um…Papa, Mama…how long will you be gone, exactly?"

"Two weeks. The wedding isn't for another month, so there's some time to prepare you for a stretch of ruling, Elsa. You are eighteen after all, and I think it's wise to have some hands-on experience with running the kingdom." Papa noticed the worried look in her icy blue eyes. Of course; she was utterly terrified of something bad happening. But there hadn't been a major incident for years—he knew she would be able to handle it. He smiled encouragingly. "Elsa? It will be alright. A mere two weeks is nothing to be afraid of."

She took a deep inhale. He was right. It wasn't that long…she could handle it. Right?

The sight of optimistic Anna chatting with Mama about royal weddings helped her unwind a little. Joining in the conversation was hard, though. A billion tiny worries had crept into her head all at once. More than anything right now, Elsa wanted to be alone, safe in her room, to plan out the upcoming task.

…

There were many sunny days after that. So enticing that Anna spent a good deal of them outdoors, shirking her duties as a princess. She often slipped away from her academic studies to play croquet with the servants. Elsa remained indoors, paying close attention to Papa's advice. He was an excellent king and ran Arendelle effortlessly. The castle's royal advisors were often a great help, Elsa noticed. Running a kingdom really did seem more like a team effort at times.

Her heart pounded. If she was to be in charge for two weeks, how could she possibly spend so much time with the advisors and castle staff? It was rare when she spent more than an hour with anyone. She would have to retreat to places of solitude as often as possible. A little plan was forming in her head: take care of any duties quickly, and steal away to her room the moment she was able. Avoid Anna…actually, avoid everyone…that should keep the castle safe.

…

Before long, the day of Rapunzel's wedding was soon to arrive. The journey to Corona was only a few days by sea, and Mama and Papa would stay there for the big event before returning. "Nothing to worry about…" Elsa kept repeating the mantra as she paced in her room. "There is absolutely nothing to worry about…just conceal and don't let it show…And stay away from everybody as much as possible, just to be on the safe side…can't be too careful…"

She often talked to herself like this when stressed. She tried not to think about her powers, but it wasn't easy. All of this stress was only making things worse. Despite the summer sun lighting up the walls, subtle frost kept forming on the windowpanes when she approached them. She groaned and reached for her gloves again.

Mama and Papa were leaving today. She would have to stay in here a little longer and calm down before saying her goodbyes.

…

Anna skidded along the carpeted corridor just for the fun of it. She slid right past the door to Elsa's room…she stopped a moment. It was soooo tempting to knock…should she? Their parents were leaving for the trip today. It would be so much more special if they all said their goodbyes together as a family.

Anna resumed walking. There was no reason to knock on her sister's door anymore. She never opened it, so what was the point?

Shaking away her lonely thoughts, Anna smiled again and ran a little further. Her parents' quarters were at the end of the long hall. Their grad master bedroom was a bit in disarray with some travelling trunks taking up the floor space. A few piles of clothes were sitting on the furniture, ready to be packed up. Mama and Papa were in the middle of some last-minute packing when Anna scurried into the room.

"See you in two weeks!" she ran into their arms. For a second, she closed her eyes as they hugged her right back. "Have a wonderful time at the wedding! Write to me the second it's over to tell me all about it. That way, it'll be fresh in your memories and I can hear every detail!"

Mama giggled. "You have our word, Anna."

"Later on this summer, we should all make a trip to Corona." said Papa. "It's a beautiful kingdom this time of the year."

"Oh, yes, that sounds—oh. Do you think Elsa would even come?"

The King and Queen paused. If only Elsa wasn't so scared all the time…Her constant glove-wearing and keeping distant helped to conceal her secret, but would a trip outside the kingdom be too much to handle?

Anna was biting her lip, waiting for an answer. "It's alright," she broke the pause before they did. "While you're away, I'll try to talk to her. Somehow."

"Your sister has a lot to deal with," said Papa, giving her a hug. "She'll tell you when she's ready, I'm sure, but for now, just be there for each other. It's not easy running Arendelle alone, so be sure to do your part, sweetheart."

Anna nodded in earnest. "I will, Papa. I'll do my very best. And don't worry about Arendelle. It'll still be standing when you get back!"

The King and Queen laughed as they gave their youngest daughter another hug.

…

Elsa ended up waiting until the very last minute, when the servants were preparing the fully-packed trunks for travel. They were actually being carried out through the double doors into the courtyard by the time Elsa made an appearance.

Mama and Papa were at the bottom of the staircase. With all the preparations for the trip complete, they were all set to head down to the docks.

Elsa remained straight and poised—a little too rigidly—and descended. She was dressed in an uncomfortable stiff-collared dress. (All of her outfits were rather confining.) As a formality, she made a curtsy to her parents. It was perfect, but rather forced, as if she were acting the part of a timid, anti-social princess. She looked up at them, her eyes full of worry. "Do you have to go?"

"You'll be fine, Elsa." said her father.

Elsa folded her hands and exhaled. I certainly hope so. "Two weeks is just such a long time…I'll keep things running smoothly around here, but promise to come back the minute you are able to. Please? Something might go wrong."

"Elsa…" he mother stepped forward with outstretched arms, as if about to give her a comforting hug.

"Don't, please." Elsa shirked away.

The Queen backed off sadly. She and the King were growing increasingly worried about Elsa's constant fear. She didn't like anyone touching her or getting too close, both physically and emotionally. It was getting out of hand.

"Sweetie, you cannot allow your fears to run your life," Mama said quietly, lest the servants overhear something. "While we're in Corona, I want you to spend some time out of your room. You need to. Go spend some quality time with Anna!"

"You know I can't do that, Mama. What if—"

"The gloves help." said Papa. "So long as you remain calm and collected, you'll be just fine. Getting upset about the magic only makes it worse, remember? Even a single hour together would mean the world to your sister."

Biting her lip, Elsa considered it. He did have a point…she and Anna couldn't very well run Arendelle if one of them was locked away in their room. Anna didn't know of the strong magic Elsa processed. If she found out, a repeat of the incident long ago might occur. Elsa was determined not to let such a thing happen. Not to her, nor anyone else. But she considered her parents' suggestion. "I can't promise that will happen…but…I'll try."

"That's our girl," Mama made another attempt at giving her daughter a hug, but Elsa was expecting it this time. She flinched away again; even a brief hug was unheard of. The Queen was bothered by this, but understood. She and the King gave loving smiles of reassurance instead. Although it was not the same as a hug, it made Elsa feel better, anyway.

"Have a safe trip!" she called as the King and Queen went out into the courtyard. The carriage was loaded with trunks and luggage, ready to head down to the awaiting ship.

Elsa and a few servants remained in the doorway to wave farewell. The horses' hooves clopped loudly on the cobblestone, just loud enough to mask the sound of a pair of dashing feet. Out of nowhere, Anna appeared, waving exuberantly and jumping up and down. "Goodbye, Mama! Bye, Papa! Have a wonderful time at the wedding! Don't forget to write to us!" She stepped out into the sun, all smiles as her parents called back their replies.

Breathless from running, the younger princess turned around to face her sister. "I'm going to miss them."

"Yes…me too." Elsa lingered as the servants disappeared one by one back into the castle. When they were all gone, it was just her and Anna left in the doorway, watching the carriage depart. Now was her chance; Anna was right here in front of her! She quickly racked her brains for a suggestion to do something together. Or maybe they could just talk, here and now. There was no time like the present; if she put it off, she may not talk to her at all.

"You know, Elsa, one of the chefs has a stash of chocolate ice cream in the kitchens," Anna wrung her hands with mischievousness. "Care to come and try some? He'll never know."

A cold dessert? That actually might be safe enough…but once again, her terrors got the better of her. "…Maybe some other time, Anna." Elsa turned away reluctantly and slowly made her way up the stairs. There was a whole two weeks ahead. She could always try later. Already she had been out of her room too long.

Back in the doorway, Anna sighed as she watched Elsa leave. She just didn't understand it! Why was Elsa so distant? And who could turn down the chance of a chocolate sundae? I'll just have to keep at it. She has to come around one of these days. We're in charge of Arendelle now—this is the perfect time! Anna was forever an optimist. Whatever Elsa was dealing with—weather it be agoraphobia, a prolonged depression, or just a case of extreme shyness, she would get to the bottom of it someday.

Still, it was very lonely sneaking off to the castle kitchens by herself.

Hiding at the top of the staircase, Elsa watched her go. She almost went after her…but she just couldn't. Already she felt an icy tingle in her gloved fingertips and in her chest, too. The sadness of her parents' departure was causing her powers to act up of their own accord. In a great hurry, Elsa began the mad dash back to her room. So much for that…I'll just have to try again tomorrow. Or maybe the next day…with Mama and Papa gone, neither of us should be alone the whole time.

This sort of tale has probably been done before in the world of Frozen fics, but this one ends on a super-tragic note. This re-write ended up being longer then I anticipated, so I've broken it down to 3 parts. Stay tuned for updates!